Saturday, September 8, 2012

Altamira Oriole

Altamira Oriole
 The Altamira oriole is the largest oriole in the United States. They live in open riparian woodlands in Mexico, Central America and south Texas. They are omnivorous, eating fruit and insects which they pick off of trees. I photographed this bird at Bentsen State Park near McAllen, TX.
Altamira Oriole Nest
Their basket shaped nest is the longest of any bird in North America. They can reach up to about 25" long. They are made out of grass fibers and epiphyte roots that are woven together by the birds. Altamira orioles usually do not nest too close to each other even though they are not really that territorial.


16 comments:

Anni said...

That is really fascinating about the nest being the 'longest' of any in North America. I did Not Know That!!!

Danielle said...

What fabulous colors...and I have never seen a nest like that. I love learning all these new things. Thank you.

Les fous du cap said...

Beautiful pictures ;-)
Céline & Philippe

Gemma Wiseman said...

This little feathered one is such a radiant, bold gold colour! Lovely photos!

Linda said...

Terrific work here.... just great!!

Lighthousegal said...

They are a very brightly colored bird. I have never seen a nest like that, it is quite interesting.
Great photos.
Happy Sunday!!

Susan said...

What a beautiful bird!! And that nest, how different!!

So nice to meet you.

Hope you have a blessed Sunday...♥

KaHolly said...

Such a beauty!

lorik said...

I think that must be one of the most beautiful birds I have ever seen, the colour gorgeous - i like the orange combined with black and white too. The bird is a work of art! Your photograph is beautiful too - nice composition.

Scotkat said...

Wow so beautiful never seen one of these before.

Ahayes1225 said...

What a beautiful bird!

carol l mckenna said...

Fantastic photos as always ~ love the texture ~ (A Creative Harbor)

theconstantwalker said...

A lovely post...

Nancy said...

I captured a B.Oriole's nest early this summer and it was about 1/2 the size of this one, but the same shape. Great images and a beautiful bird.

Cheryl said...

Beautiful bird and great shot of both it and the nest. I haven't seen any variety of oriole in these parts for such a long time, this was truly a sight for sore eyes.

Gowri said...

What a beautiful bird! Lovely bright colours. :)